Carbon dioxide power system and method

ABSTRACT

A system and method for driving a power tool or other implement using pressurized gas delivered from a portable canister, a business method for distributing canisters for use with such a system and method, and a compact distribution block for regulating pressure and delivering fluid from the canister to the tool.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 60/525,097 filed Nov. 25, 2003, and U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/560,422 filed Apr. 8, 2004,which applications are incorporated herein by reference in theirentireties for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to a portable power system andmethod for driving tools or other implements; and more particularly to apressurized fluid drive system and method for power tools and the like,preferably utilizing carbon dioxide (CO₂) or other fluid dispensed froma self-contained portable canister as the pressurized drive fluid.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Power tools and other implements are commonly used in variousindustrial, residential, automotive and other applications. For example,power nail-guns and staplers are commonly used in the constructiontrades, power impact wrenches and lifts are used in automotive repairand maintenance, and power paint sprayers and rollers are used invarious paint and finish applications. Various other tasks are or can beperformed with the assistance of power tools and implements.

Known power tools and implements commonly utilize pressurized air(pneumatic-drive) or pressurized liquid (hydraulic-drive) as their fluidpower sources. In other known systems and methods, a controlledexplosion of butane or other hydrocarbon fuel source is utilized as apower source for nail-guns and the like.

Such previously known systems and methods for driving power tools andimplements have been found to have a number of disadvantages. Forexample, pneumatic and hydraulic drive systems generally require thatthe tool be connected, typically by a length of hose, to a stationarycompressor or the like. This limits the applicability of such systems toapplications requiring ease of portability, and presents safety risksand inconveniences resulting from the hoses being stretched through theworkplace, often becoming entangled with other equipment and creatingtripping hazards. Butane cartridges, compressors, and other equipmentassociated with previously known systems and methods also tend to bequite expensive, and/or to require frequent maintenance, adding furtherexpense and inconvenience.

Thus it can be seen that needs exist for improved systems and methodsfor driving power tools and other implements. It is to the provision ofimproved systems and methods meeting these and other needs that thepresent invention is primarily directed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In example forms, the present invention is an improved system and methodfor driving power tools and other implements. The system and method ofthe present invention preferably utilize self-contained tanks orcanisters of pressurized fluid, most preferably carbon dioxide (CO₂), asthe power source to drive various power tools and implements. Such tanksand canisters are commercially available in various sizes, typically ata pressure of about 720-810 p.s.i. (nominal 800 p.s.i.).

In one aspect, the present invention is an inexpensive disposable tankor canister containing pressurized liquid CO₂ or other pressurized drivefluid, for use as a power source to drive various power tools andimplements. The tank or canister optionally comprises an attached orintegral fitting and/or adapter for coupling to a regulator, a hose, acoupling element of a power tool or implement, a fill attachment, apressure-relief safety valve, and/or a quick-release coupling forattachment to a tool or to a connection hose in communication with thetool.

In another aspect, the invention is a universal distribution block oradapter for connection to CO₂ tanks or canisters of different sizes. Forexample, a common distribution block can be provided to couple both20-ounce and 2-pound CO₂ canisters to a tool or implement. In otherembodiments, a common distribution block couples to two or more of a20-ounce CO₂ canister, a 2-pound CO₂ canister, a 5-pound CO₂ tank, a20-pound CO₂ tank, and/or a 50-pound CO₂ tank. Optionally, thedistribution block includes attachment couplings or integral mounts fora pressure regulator, a fill attachment, a pressure-relief safety valve,and/or a quick-release coupling for attachment to the tool or to aconnection hose in communication with the tool. In still otherembodiments, the distribution block may be fitted with an adaptor thatallows recharging of a CO₂ tank without removing the distribution valveor regulator.

In still another aspect, the invention is a system including a CO₂ powersource and one or more tools or implements driven by that source. Forexample, in one example system according to the present invention, ahand-portable canister or tank of pressurized liquid CO₂ is connectedvia a flexible hose to a power tool such as a nail gun or stapler. Inother embodiments, the flexible hose is fitted with an in-line pneumaticoiler to provide lubrication or antifreeze to the tool. In still otherembodiments, the system utilizes CO₂ as the drive source for one or moreother tools or implements, such as for example a stapler, a paint gun orroller, an impact wrench, a jack or automotive lift, a pressurizationfitting for leak-testing plumbing or other conduits or vessels, and/or aspray applicator for pesticides or other fluids.

In still another aspect, the invention is a method for driving a powertool or other implement using pressurized CO₂ or another compressedfluid.

In another aspect, the invention is a system for driving a power tool orother implement using pressurized CO₂ as the power source, which systemalso functions as a fire extinguishing or suppression system. Forexample, a canister or tank of CO₂ can be connected via a first couplingof a distribution block to a power tool or implement such as an impactwrench and/or vehicle jack, and connected via a second coupling of thedistribution block to a release mechanism for discharging CO₂ through ahose or nozzle in the fashion of a CO₂ fire extinguisher. This system isof particular advantage in automotive racing or other applications ofpotential fire risk.

In another aspect, the invention is a system including a CO₂ powersource and one or more tools or implements driven by that sourceincluding a system of one or more gauges and/or scales used to monitorthe CO₂ power source. For example, in one embodiment a gauge is used tomeasure the pressure inside both the regulator and the line, while acalibrated scale is used to determine the amount of CO₂ remaining in thetank.

In another aspect, the invention is a CO₂ powered system used to driveone or more tools or implements that utilizes ergonomically designedconnections, regulator and gauge suitable for portable, hip-mounted use.For example, the regulator, gauge and line connector can be positionedat acute angles relative to the tank in order to minimize userinterference and discomfort while using the CO₂ powered system. Aharness or belt can be provided, having mounting loops or otherreleasable fastening means, for carrying the fluid canister, the tool,and related implements, in a safe and convenient manner. The componentsof the tool and drive system can be provided as a kit, and/or asseparate components.

In still another aspect, the invention is a business method fordistributing, selling and exchanging replacement CO₂ tanks for drivingpower tools and the like. For example, the CO₂ tanks can be sold withboth a distributor valve and a universal fitting for bottles and toolsalready affixed to the tank. In this manner, the tanks are ready to useas bought. Upon emptying the tank, the end user can exchange the emptytank for a full tank with a licensed retailer. In other embodiments, theuser may return an empty tank to a retailer and have the tank refilled.

In another aspect, the invention is a portable tool drive systemincluding at least one canister for containing a pressurized drivefluid, a distribution block attached to the canister, and a regulatorfor regulating a fluid delivery pressure. The distribution blockpreferably includes a refill port, and a discharge port for delivery ofthe drive fluid.

In another aspect, the invention is an integral distribution block andpressure regulator for a portable tool drive system. The integraldistribution block and pressure regulator preferably include a firstcoupling for attachment to a portable container of pressurized fluid,and a second coupling for attachment to a fluid discharge conduit, andthe first and second couplings are oriented at an oblique angle relativeto one another.

In yet another aspect, the invention is a method of driving a powertool, the method including the steps of installing a distribution blockand pressure regulator onto a canister; substantially filling thecanister with a pressurized drive fluid via a fill port in thedistribution block; and coupling a power tool to a discharge port in thedistribution block to deliver the pressurized drive fluid to drive thepower tool.

These and other aspects, features and advantages of the invention willbe understood with reference to the drawing figures and detaileddescription herein, and will be realized by means of the variouselements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appendedclaims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing generaldescription and the following brief description of the drawings anddetailed description of the invention are exemplary and explanatory ofpreferred embodiments of the invention, and are not restrictive of theinvention, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of a tool and drive system according to an exampleembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an elevational view of a distribution block or adapteraccording to an example embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is an assembly view of a dual-canister drive system according toan example embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 4 and 5 are perspective and top views of pack-mounted drivesystems according to two alternate embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 6 and 7 show distribution block and regulator valve assembliesaccording to alternate forms of the invention.

FIG. 8 shows a portable fluid drive canister fitted with a universaldistribution block incorporating a pressure gauge, quick releaseconnector, pressure regulator, and fill attachment, according to anotherexample embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 shows an exploded view of the distributor block component of FIG.8.

FIG. 10 shows an example embodiment of the system of the presentinvention, including a portable fluid drive canister powering apneumatic nail gun.

FIG. 11 shows another example embodiment of the system of the presentinvention, including a portable fluid drive canister powering an airbrush paint or finish applicator.

FIG. 12 shows another example embodiment of the system of the presentinvention, including a portable fluid drive canister powering an airinflation system.

FIG. 13 shows another example embodiment of the system of the presentinvention, including a portable fluid drive canister powering an impactwrench.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

The present invention may be understood more readily by reference to thefollowing detailed description of the invention taken in connection withthe accompanying drawing figures, which form a part of this disclosure.It is to be understood that this invention is not limited to thespecific devices, methods, conditions or parameters described and/orshown herein, and that the terminology used herein is for the purpose ofdescribing particular embodiments by way of example only and is notintended to be limiting of the claimed invention. Also, as used in thespecification including the appended claims, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” include the plural, and reference to a particularnumerical value includes at least that particular value, unless thecontext clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein asfrom “about” or “approximately” one particular value and/or to “about”or “approximately” another particular value. When such a range isexpressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular valueand/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values areexpressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it willbe understood that the particular value forms another embodiment.

With reference now to the drawing figures, example embodiments ofvarious aspects of the present invention are shown and described. FIG. 1shows a system 10, including a canister 20 containing a pressurized gasor liquid, for example pressurized liquid CO₂. The canister 20 may befor example a 20-ounce CO₂ tank, a 2-pound CO₂ tank, a 5-pound CO₂ tank,a 20-pound CO₂ tank, or a 50-pound CO₂ tank. A is mounted to thecanister 20, and includes fittings or couplings for a fill attachment32, a pressure-relief safety valve 34, a pressure regulator valve andgauges 36, and/or a quick-release and attachment coupling 38 forattachment to a hose 40 or fitting for delivery of pressurized CO₂ todrive a power tool or implement 42. FIG. 2 shows the internal boring ofan example form of the distribution block 30 in broken lines. The tool42 is depicted as a nail gun, but in other embodiments may take the formof, for example, a stapler, a paint gun or roller, an impact wrench, ajack or automotive lift, a pressurization fitting for leak-testingplumbing or other conduits or vessels, and/or a spray applicator forpesticides or other fluids, or other power-driven tool or implement.

FIG. 3 shows an alternate embodiment of a drive system for power toolsor implements according to the invention. This embodiment includes aplurality (two are shown) of CO₂ tanks or canisters 20, and one or morevalved jumper(s) 60 connected between successive tanks to permit theuser to select either one of the tanks, or both of the tanks in tandem,as the drive source for a power tool. This embodiment provides a greatervolume of pressurized drive fluid, as for increased duration of useand/or for applications requiring increased volumetric flow. Thedual-canister system also allows for weight balancing, for example byallowing one canister 20 a to be mounted on a belt or harness on theleft-hand side of a wearer's body, and the other canister 20 b to bemounted on the wearer's right-hand side.

FIG. 4 shows an alternate embodiment of the invention, for exampledirected to a portable spray applicator for dispensing pesticides,herbicides, fertilizers, or other fluid or fluidized material. A firsttank 20 contains the pressurized drive fluid, which pressurizes aproduct tank 80 containing the material to be dispensed, to permit theuser to dispense product through a wand and hose assembly 82. A fillcoupling 84 extends from adjacent the regulator 86, for allowingrefilling of the pressurization tank 20. One or more gauges 88, such astank pressure gauge 88 a and line pressure gauge 88 b are optionallyprovided to allow the user to monitor tank pressure and working pressuredelivered to the product tank. The tanks 20, 80 are optionally containedin a shell 90 for ease of portability. In example embodiments, the shell90 takes the form of a backpack having one or more shoulder straps 92,or other user-wearable or hand-carried device. In another embodiment,shown in example form in FIG. 5, the pressurization tank 20′ isremovably installed in fluid communication with a pressurizable bladderor reservoir 100 within the shell 90′, which serves as the product tankto contain the material to be dispensed.

FIGS. 6 and 7 show alternate forms of quick-disconnect regulator anddistribution block components for use with the portable pressurizedfluid drive system 110 of the present invention. The distribution block130 is preferably releasably mounted to a canister 120 containingpressurized drive fluid, substantially as disclosed above, for exampleby means of a threaded coupling. Alternatively, the distribution block130 is permanently affixed to or integrally formed with thepressurization canister 120. The distribution block 130 preferablycomprises a gate valve 132 for opening and closing fluid discharge fromthe canister 120, a fill port coupling 134 for refilling the canisterwhen spent, a safety-release valve 136 for venting excess pressure fromthe canister, and a quick-disconnect coupling 138 for connection of theregulator assembly 140. The regulator assembly 140 preferably includes ahigh-pressure gauge 142 for displaying the tank pressure within thecanister 120 when valve 132 is open, and a low-pressure gauge 144 fordisplaying the regulator discharge pressure delivered to the tool. Anadjustment knob 146 allows the user to selectively control the regulatordischarge pressure within a range. A second quick-disconnect coupling150 is preferably provided for connection of the hose delivering drivefluid at the regulated pressure to the tool.

FIGS. 8-13 depict a portable pressurized fluid drive system 210according to another example embodiment of the invention. A CO₂ tank orcanister 220 is preferably coupled via a length of pneumatic hose 222 todrive a power tool such as a nail gun 224 (FIG. 10), a paint sprayer 226(FIG. 11), an inflation hose 228 (FIG. 12), or an impact wrench 230(FIG. 13). Of course in other embodiments, the tool may take the formof, for example, a stapler, a paint roller, an impact wrench, a jack orautomotive lift, a blower nozzle for cleaning, a pressurization fittingfor leak-testing plumbing or other conduits or vessels, a sprayapplicator for pesticides or other fluids, and/or another power-driventool or implement. The hose 222 is preferably connected to thepressurized drive system and/or the tool via quick-connect and swivelcouplings 234 for ease of use and to resist tangling and kinking of thehose. The system can optionally also include a tool belt or harness forholding the CO₂ canister, the driven tool, and/or various associatedimplements about the user's waist, and for hose management for safetyand convenience of use.

FIG. 8 shows an integral distribution block and pressure regulator 250in greater detail, according to an example form of the invention. Theintegral distribution block and pressure regulator 250 preferablycomprises a lower housing 252 having internal threads or otherconnection means for releasably coupling with the canister 220, a fillcoupling 254 for attachment to an external fluid refill source forrefilling the canister when spent, a pressure-relief valve 256 forventing excess pressure from the canister, a coupling for attachment ofa line pressure indicating gauge 258, a coupling for attachment of thequick disconnect fitting 234, an upper housing or bell cover 260 forcontaining the internal regulator components, and an adjustment knob 262for selectively controlling the line pressure output. The incorporationof the pressure regulator, fill connection, safety release valve, gaugecoupling, and tool hose coupling into a compact integral unitarydistribution block assembly advantageously reduces the size and weightof the system, improving portability and ease of use, reducingmanufacturing cost, and increasing durability. The provision of auniversal distribution block as shown, suitable for attachment tovarious sizes of CO₂ canisters, advantageously permits the user tointerchange canisters of different sizes with the same tools andimplements, depending on the scope of the intended project and/orcanister availability.

In preferred form, the integral distribution block and pressureregulator 250 provides for connection of only a single indicator gauge,namely line pressure display gauge 258; and no gauge is provided forindicating the tank pressure or fill level of the canister. It has beenfound that a tank pressure gauge provides less accuracy than isgenerally desirable for indicating the level of fluid fill remaining inthe canister. Also, providing a tank pressure gauge increases cost,decreases durability, and makes the overall device bulkier and morecumbersome to use. Accordingly, the system of the present inventionpreferably comprises a calibrated digital or spring-based scale (such asare commonly used by fishermen to weigh fish, for example), formeasuring the weight of the CO₂ tank to indicate how much CO₂ remains inthe tank. The scale may, for example, be mounted between the canister220 and the canister bracket or carrier portion of the belt or harnessworn by the user, to provide an accurate indication of the total weightof the canister and its contents. Also, the gauge 258 and line connector234 preferably extend at acute angles relative to the housing of theintegral distribution block and pressure regulator 250, in order toreduce the profile of the system and minimize user interference anddiscomfort.

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of an integral distribution block andpressure regulator 250 similar to that of FIG. 8, showing the internalregulator components. Manual actuation of the adjustment knob 262 allowsa user to variably control the pressure and volumetric flow rate of thecompressed gas from within tank 220. As the distal end of the screw 270extending from the adjustment knob 262 presses on washer 272, the spring274 is compressed. Pressure is thereby exerted on the safety releasevalve 276. Safety release valve 276 is concentrically surrounded by arubber washer 278 and forms a seal with the distributor block face 280.A second washer 282 rests on top of rubber washer 278 to help maintain atight seal. Safety release valve 276 presses on release pin 284, whichreleases compressed gas from the tank. Release pin 284 is engaged withinbolt 286, which is screwed into the lower housing 252 of the distributorblock 250. A pressure distribution chamber is defined between rubberwasher 278 and the base of cavity 290. The base of cavity 290communicates compressed fluid at the regulated pressure through ports292 and 294 to the line pressure gauge 258 and to the quick releasecoupling 234. A first threaded bore 296 in the lower housing 252receives the pressure gauge 258 for connection to the distributor block250, and a second threaded bore 298 receives the quick-release coupling234 for connection to the distributor block to form the fluid dischargeport for delivering regulated pressure fluid to the tool, eitherdirectly or via a delivery conduit such as a flexible hose. The threadedbores 296, 298 that receive the pressure gauge and the dischargecoupling are both preferably oriented at an acute angle relative to thethreaded bore in the bottom of the lower housing 252 that engages thedistribution block to the canister 220, so that the installed gauge andcoupling will extend at a downward angle (See FIG. 8) toward thecanister, to minimize the system's overall profile. A threaded bore 300receives the fill coupling 254. In order to prevent theover-pressurization of the distributor block, safety release mechanism276 has a release valve 302 that releases and discharges fluid if thepressure exceeds a predetermined maximum. The over-pressurized fluid isreleased to the surrounding environment by bleeding through the threadsof bell cover 260, and/or through one or more relief holes drilledthrough the bell cover. In an alternate embodiment, the pressure gauge258 is optionally omitted, and a slot is provided in the bell cover 260.An indicator finger projecting from the washer 272 extends through theslot in the bell cover, and moves up and down with the washer as thepressure is adjusted. Numerical pressure indicia are engraved orimprinted on the bell cover along the slot to indicate the pressure byalignment with the indicator finger of the washer 272.

In its various embodiments, the system of the present invention iscompact and lightweight, and is particularly well-suited forhand-portable applications. For example, as described above, the systemcan be incorporated into a backpack or other user-wearable orhand-carried device. Alternatively, the replaceable CO₂ tank may includea hook, clip or other feature(s) to permit a user to carry the tank onhis or her belt, tool apron, or the like. Quick-release couplings arepreferably provided to permit the user to quickly and easily replacespent CO₂ cartridges, and/or to permit quick and easy interchangeabilityof tools. A convenient length of hose preferably couples the tank andthe tool, to permit the user a full range of motion in use, but toprevent tangling and/or tripping hazards. Optionally, the hose is aself-coiling or self-retracting hose for easier handling and all hoseconnections are fitted with a swivel connector to prevent the hose fromtangling.

In alternate embodiments of the invention, the system of the presentinvention comprises a kit for provision as original equipment orretrofit equipment for an automobile or other vehicle. For example, aportable carrying case houses one or more replaceable CO₂ canisters ortanks; a hose, regulator and coupling assembly; an impact wrench andsocket for removing lug nuts; and a CO₂-powered jack adapted to raisethe weight of the vehicle. To change a tire, the user places the jackunder the vehicle, connects a CO₂ tank to the jack, and actuates a valveto direct CO₂ to the jack to raise the vehicle. A CO₂ tank is thenconnected to drive the impact wrench, which is used to remove the lugnuts. The wheel is then removed and replaced with the spare, and the lugnuts are replaced using the impact wrench. The jack is then lowered byreleasing the pressurized fluid.

In order to reduce the likelihood of freezing up of equipment due totemperature drop from expansion of the CO₂ as the system is operated, itis preferred that the distribution block be formed of a heat-conductivematerial such as aluminum, copper, brass or other metal(s) orheat-conductive material(s), and have sufficient mass to promote heattransfer to the working fluid. It is further preferred that the hoseextending between the CO₂ tank and the tool be heat-conductive, and/orhave a relatively high length to diameter ratio (for example on theorder of 60:1 or more) to promote heat transfer to the working fluid. Inaddition, an in line oiler 225 may be positioned between thedistribution block and the tool, as seen in FIG. 10, in order to providelubrication or antifreeze to the tool.

A further advantage to the system and method of the present invention isthat the use of CO₂ as the drive fluid permits the system to also servedual purpose as a fire suppression device. For example, the distributionblock mounted to the CO₂ tank can include an emergency release mechanismto permit high-volume discharge of CO₂ through a hose and nozzle coupledthereto, in similar fashion to the operation of a CO₂ fire extinguisher.

The present invention also encompasses a method of distribution and useof a pressurized fluid drive system substantially as disclosed. Inexample form, the method of the present invention preferably comprisesproviding one or more refillable canisters for containing a pressurizedfluid for driving a power tool, the canisters having a distributionblock connected thereto. The distribution block preferably includes arefill coupling for attachment to an external source of pressurizedfluid, for refilling the canister when spent; and a coupling forattachment of a power tool to receive the pressurized drive fluid fromthe canister, for example via a hose or other fluid delivery conduit.The canisters are preferably sold to users from various supply locationsin a pre-charged state, filled with pressurized fluid and ready to use.In one embodiment, upon emptying the canister, the end user can returnthe spent canister to a licensed supplier, and exchange it for a fullcanister. The supplier then inspects, tests, cleans, repairs (ifnecessary), and refills the canister for resale and reuse. In alternateembodiments, the user may return an empty canister to a supplier andhave the tank refilled for further use.

While the invention has been described with reference to preferred andexample embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the artthat a variety of modifications, additions and deletions are within thescope of the invention, as defined by the following claims. For example,although the drive fluid has been described herein as utilizing CO₂ asthe drive fluid, it will be understood that the invention also includessystems, equipment and methods substantially as described, but utilizingcompressed air, compressed nitrogen, other compressed gasses, and/ormixtures thereof, as the drive fluid(s).

1. A portable tool drive system comprising at least one canister forcontaining a pressurized drive fluid, a distribution block attached tosaid canister, and a regulator for regulating a fluid delivery pressure;wherein said distribution block comprises a refill port, and a dischargeport for delivery of the drive fluid.
 2. The portable tool drive systemof claim 1, wherein the discharge port comprises a quick-releasecoupling.
 3. The portable tool drive system of claim 1, furthercomprising at least one gauge for indicating a fluid pressure.
 4. Theportable tool drive system of claim 3, comprising only a single gaugefor indicating a regulated fluid delivery pressure.
 5. The portable tooldrive system of claim 1, wherein the distribution block furthercomprises a pressure-relief safety valve for venting excess fluidpressure.
 6. The portable tool drive system of claim 1, wherein thedistribution block comprises a first coupling for attachment to thecanister, and a second coupling for attachment of a fluid deliveryconduit to the discharge port, and wherein the first and secondcouplings are oriented at an oblique angle relative to one another. 7.The portable tool drive system of claim 6, wherein the distributionblock further comprises a third coupling for attachment of a gauge forindicating a fluid pressure, and wherein the first and third couplingsare oriented at an oblique angle relative to one another.
 8. Theportable tool drive system of claim 1, wherein the regulator and thedistribution block are combined as an integral component.
 9. Theportable tool drive system of claim 1, comprising two canisters forcontaining a pressurized drive fluid, and a jumper providing fluidcommunication between the two canisters.
 10. The portable tool drivesystem of claim 1, further comprising an emergency release allowinghigh-volume discharge of the pressurized drive fluid forfire-suppression purposes.
 11. An integral distribution block andpressure regulator for a portable tool drive system, said integraldistribution block and pressure regulator comprising a first couplingfor attachment to a portable container of pressurized fluid, and asecond coupling for attachment to a fluid discharge conduit, whereinsaid first and second couplings are oriented at an oblique anglerelative to one another.
 12. The integral distribution block andpressure regulator of claim 11, further comprising a third coupling forattachment of a gauge for indicating a fluid pressure, wherein the firstand third couplings are oriented at an oblique angle relative to oneanother.
 13. The integral distribution block and pressure regulator ofclaim 11, further comprising a refill port.
 14. The integraldistribution block and pressure regulator of claim 11, furthercomprising a pressure-relief safety valve for venting excess fluidpressure.
 15. The integral distribution block and pressure regulator ofclaim 11, wherein the first and second couplings comprise threaded boresin a lower housing portion of the integral distribution block andpressure regulator, and wherein the integral distribution block andpressure regulator further comprises an upper bell cover mountable ontothe lower housing portion to enclose a variable pressure regulationmechanism.
 16. A method of driving a power tool, said method comprising:installing a distribution block and pressure regulator onto a canister;substantially filling the canister with a pressurized drive fluid via afill port in the distribution block; and coupling a power tool to adischarge port in the distribution block to deliver the pressurizeddrive fluid to drive the power tool.
 17. The method of claim 16, whereinthe step of substantially filling the canister comprises deliveringcompressed CO₂ into the canister through the fill port.
 18. The methodof claim 16, further comprising refilling the canister after dischargingat least a portion of the pressurized drive fluid.
 19. The method ofclaim 16, further comprising: uncoupling the power tool from thedischarge port after discharging at least a portion of the pressurizeddrive fluid; exchanging a first canister, distribution block andpressure regulator for a second canister, distribution block andpressure regulator; and re-coupling the power tool to a discharge portin the second distribution block.
 20. The method of claim 19, whereinthe second canister is of a different size than the first canister. 21.The method of claim 16, further comprising mounting the canister,distribution block and pressure regulator to a user-wearable carrier.22. The method of claim 16, further comprising activating an emergencyrelease to trigger a high-volume discharge of the pressurized drivefluid from the canister for fire-suppression purposes.